Tips from Strive Physical Therapy for Achieving Core Stability
What is meant by Core?
If you were to think of your body as two halves, then most likely you would pick your
waist as the midway point. This also happens to be an effective way to describe your
body’s core.
The body’s core muscles are made up of the transversus abdominis, lumbar multifidi,
diaphragm, and pelvic muscles. This group of muscles encircle and support your spine
making them the most intimately involved muscles in spinal stabilization. They also play
a crucial role in communicating with the central nervous system and brain.
Why is it important?
The strengthening of functional muscle groups (core muscles) leads to a more
sophisticated neuromuscular system and improved lumbar spine support. Think of them
as a brace for your spine. Additionally, the strengthening of these muscles can lead to the
reduction of urinary stress incontinence. The correlation between the tranversus and
pelvic floor muscles is becoming more evident. Though they’ve primarily been confined
to the offices of physical therapists around the globe, core strengthening exercises are
slowly creeping into the depths of athletic training rooms because of their ability to refine
even the most highly trained athlete.
In today’s aging society, back pain issues are more prevalent than ever. A training
regimen designed to target these muscles can significantly reduce present and prevent
future pain, as well as postural problems.
In addition to pain reduction and injury prevention, core stability can significantly
improve athletic performance. This type of training can help teach athletes to move more
efficiently by effectively increasing the transfer of energy from core to limb.
From rehab to sports and fitness training, the importance of core stability is no secret. A
strong core leads to the improvement of everyday life, injury prevention/pain reduction,
and enhanced sports performance. Growing popularity and proven results have vaulted
core strengthening exercises into all types of training programs from the gym to the
Pilates studio.
How can I use this?
Stability, strength, and performance are the goals of any core strength-training program.
Physical therapists, for example, use integrated products and techniques to isolate the
weakness and work multiple muscle groups. Personal, group and athletic trainers can
also incorporate Core Training techniques into their sessions with clients and athletes,
alike. A stability ball is a terrific tool that provides a dynamic challenge for all levels.
The key to incorporating this type of training is to do so at a gradual pace.
One object of core training is teaching our bodies the correct use of the middle and outer
layer muscles. One way to accomplish this is by training on a stability ball. While
maintaining balance on the exercise ball, it is thought to increase activation of the core
muscles.
Making the Transition
Always remember that the transition to core training should be a gradual one. If you
experience pain at any time, the exercise should be discontinued. Proper form and
controlled movements are the focus of any core exercise program.
If you or somebody you know is interested in Core Training, talk it over with your
physician or contact Strive Physical Therapy for a consultation. We would love to help
you with a Core Training program and achieve Core Stabilization.